Governor Alex Otti says his government is prepared to partner Indonesia to boost economic development and industrialisation in Abia.

Mr Otti said this on Thursday when the Indonesian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Usra Harahap, paid him a visit in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South LGA.

The governor also reiterated the readiness of the state government to collaborate with willing foreign investors to stimulate the state’s economy and boost socioeconomic development.

He said Indonesia had made various innovative scientific and technological advancements and had a progressive gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate.

“We are pleased that Indonesia has identified Aba as one of the states it desires to partner with, and you have close to US$1.3 trillion in GDP, which is a lot, so there is a whole lot to learn from you,” Mr Otti said.

He said the government was interested in partnerships to develop education, agriculture, entertainment, health, trade, industry, commerce, and technology, among others.

Mr Otti said the collaboration with Indonesia would assist in facilitating the development of Abia’s economy in various sectors.

“Our people are very, very innovative, so all they require is a little support in terms of an enabling environment, support in terms of infrastructure, support in terms of seed capital.

“The government is very serious about providing these kinds of support; when you talk about SMEs, this is where it comes from. If we can work together to establish an entrepreneurship and technology centre anywhere in the state, I know you’ve done that for a few countries. You can also do that for us here,” he said.

Mr Otti expressed optimism that the collaboration between Abia and Indonesian governments would benefit Abia.

Mr Harahap described his visit as demonstrating his country’s commitment to fostering diplomatic cooperation with Nigeria and Abia.

He said Indonesia was keen to establish meaningful partnerships in crucial sectors such as trade, agriculture, education, technology, construction and works, healthcare and pharmaceuticals and entrepreneurship.

He said these sectors were key to fostering economic prosperity and creating opportunities for Indonesia and Abia.

Mr Harahap urged the business community and the government to explore the numerous opportunities in Indonesia.

(NAN)